Attie named Veteran of the Year (with video)

LORAIN -- Donald Attie has been selected the Lorain Veterans Council's Veteran of the Year.

Attie, a Vietnam Veteran, was honored last night at the organization's 67th annual banquet at the Italian American Veterans Post 1, 4567 Oberlin Ave.

Attie is heavily involved in veteran affairs and the overall community. He serves as president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee and as fundraising chairman for Valor Home Lorain County's executive committee.

Attie is a member of numerous veterans groups, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Amvets and the Honor Guard.

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Last year's Veteran of the Year, Leo Citro, noted Attie's dedication to the community.

"He does a lot for veterans and the community," Citro said. "He volunteers for a lot of things."

Citro is also a member of Valor Home's executive committee, which is led by Sam Felton, who was named president of the Lorain Veterans Council last night. Valor Home will provide transitional housing for homeless veterans.

"He puts in a lot of time for the Valor Home," Citro said. "He is well deserving."

Attie's work with the community extends beyond veterans, he previously served on the Lorain County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services Board and the Lorain County Board of Mental Health.

Attie said he finds fulfillment in helping others.

"It is my goal and it makes me feel good to help another veteran in their time of need," he said.

Valor Home will help address the struggles many veterans may face as they return from war.

"We've finally brought that home," he said. "We're going to gain momentum again soon so that we can keep our veterans off the streets and never have to have another one sleep on the street.

"It really is truly an hour to be up here and to be awarded this," he said. "So many veterans and their families need our help, need our support and we need to continue to do that."

Attie left the guests at the banquet with the words he lives by.

"When you seek happiness for yourself, it always eludes you," he quoted. "When you seek happiness for others, it always finds you. That is where I get my happiness."